The advantages of solar power have been well known for centuries. Ancient civilizations used the sun to start fires and built sunrooms to heat homes, but it wasn’t until 1954 that the first photovoltaic (PV) technology was invented. PV is a solar cell capable of converting solar energy into power that can run common electrical equipment, the very technology used in solar energy today. The efficiency and wattage output of PV continued improving, and by 1983, the first fully solar-powered home became a reality. Thanks to the evolution of the original PV technology, solar power is now more accessible than ever, offering many options for adding solar to your home.
Benefits of residential solar power
Adding solar power to your home comes with many advantages. Reducing monthly electricity costs and the available incentives and tax credits make solar power attractive financially. However, the higher upfront cost of solar panel installation and the noticeable rooftop panels make switching to solar less appealing. Fortunately, the technology has evolved, making solar technology not only more affordable but also visually attractive.
Timberline Solar shingles vs. solar rack panels
Construction industry leader GAF Energy saw the need to develop something less cumbersome and more attractive to make home solar energy more accessible. Aware of the drawbacks of conventional solar rack systems, they developed Timberline Solar™ roofing products to solve some of the most common problems with traditional solar panels:
- Highly visible panels: No more large panels! Timberline Solar roofing consists of small, low-profile solar shingles that blend seamlessly into your asphalt shingles.
- Voided roof warranties: Installing traditional solar panels can puncture your existing roof and nullify your roof’s warranty. Timberline Solar roofing system is installed in conjunction with your original roof and in the same manner, using nails. Nothing is damaged in the process, and including the install process keeps your warranty intact.
- Heavy panels: Timberline Solar shingles are lightweight and durable, with better functionality and broader application.
- Shade: Lack of sunlight interrupts solar energy production. The smaller lightweight Timberline Solar roofing shingles continue to function in partial shade. Each solar shingle works separately, so the panels that do receive light can still harness the solar power.
Timberline Solar roofing products solve the problems with traditional solar rack systems, and have extra benefits not previously included in solar panels or other roof-integrated solar panel systems.
- Ease of installation: Installed with nails along with traditional asphalt roofing and installed by roofing contractors, eliminating the need to hire additional contractors.
- Wind Resistance: Up to 130 mph, similar to asphalt shingles.
- Waterproof: Fully encased solar technology is unaffected by rain.
- Durable: When installed, the panels are sturdy enough to walk on, like regular roofing.
- Made in the USA
